SPANA launches project to help working dogs in Malawi
“Many of these dogs have never had access to veterinary care” – Linda Edwards.
The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA) has launched a project to improve the welfare standards of working dogs in Malawi.
Breeds such as German shepherds, Africanis, boerboels and Rottweilers are regularly used as security dogs in the country, where two-thirds of the human population live in extreme poverty and crime rates are high.
However, despite the importance of the dogs, the charity says that their welfare, health and working conditions are often overlooked.
Linda Edwards, CEO of SPANA, said: “Through no fault of their own, many people in Malawi are unaware of the basic needs of working dogs, such as constant access to clean, fresh water, nutritious food, and good shelters so that they can rest well and seek relief from the baking sun.
“Dog food, which must be imported from neighbouring countries, is prohibitively expensive, often leading to severe nutrition deficiencies. Plus, there are prolonged periods without any enrichment or mental stimulation, critical for a security dog’s quality of life.”
To help improve conditions, SPANA has formed a partnership with the Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (LSPCA) to work with security companies, handlers, and owners.
Security companies that meet welfare standards will be issued with an annual government-accredited stamp to promote good standards of care. The stamp will recognise companies that provide adequate living conditions, shelter, nutrition, and veterinary care.
SPANA and LSPCA are also providing veterinary care to working dogs, including vaccinations, parasite treatments, health checks and nutritional advice.
Ms Edwards added: “Many of these dogs have never had access to veterinary care. Veterinary supplies are scarce, so the threat of infectious, contagious diseases such as kennel cough, which causes great discomfort, and parvovirus, which can be fatal if untreated, also looms.
“These dogs are indispensable to their communities, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and care. This project is their lifeline.”
Image © SPANA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
